Overview
- Red Bull said Marko chose to step down at the end of 2025, with Oliver Mintzlaff stating the company respected his wish after a lengthy discussion.
- Marko attributed his timing to the disappointment of narrowly losing this year’s title, calling it the right moment to close a long and successful chapter.
- Multiple reports cite internal disputes over driver recruitment, including an alleged unilateral move to sign Alex Dunne and the addition of Arvid Lindblad, with a payoff reportedly needed to unwind the Dunne deal.
- Recent controversies around Marko’s public remarks, including accusations involving Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli that preceded online abuse and prompted apologies, intensified scrutiny of his role.
- His exit follows earlier high-profile departures of Christian Horner and Adrian Newey and sharpens focus on Red Bull’s 2026 transition and on Max Verstappen’s long-term plans, which observers say hinge on future competitiveness despite a deal to 2028.